Portable Hunting Blind Base and Accessories Therefor

ABSTRACT

A base for supporting a hunting blind includes a plurality of outer frame members connected to one another to form an outer frame, at least one floor panel positioned on a top surface of the outer frame, and at least one of the floor panels defining at least one aperture to receive a storage bin. A plurality of support members may be configured to support the outer frame, the support members being configured for insertion into a ground surface. A height of each support member relative to the ground surface may be adjustable to provide a level position for the outer frame.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 62/362,361, filed on Jul. 14, 2016, the disclosure ofwhich is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention

This disclosure relates generally to hunting blind bases and, inparticular, to a hunting blind base with accessories for storing,transporting, and assembling the hunting blind and items used by ahunter when using the hunting blind.

Description of Related Art

Hunting blinds are typically used by hunters to conceal or camouflagethe hunter's position and/or scent when hunting for animals. The huntingblinds increase the hunter's success of avoiding detection by theanimals and shooting the animals from the hunting blind. Conventionalhunting blinds, however, are typically placed on a ground surface in aforest or field. The hunters typically place their equipment on theground surface in the hunting blind, which can create a plurality ofobstructions in the hunting blind and can reduce the space available fora hunter to move within the hunting blind. Due to the hunter's equipmentbeing placed on the ground surface in the hunting blind, the hunter ismore susceptible to tripping on his/her equipment or creating noise thatcan distract and alert animals to the hunter's presence. Further,conventional hunting blinds are configured to rest on a flat surface ata hunting location. The hunting blinds are typically unable to beassembled on a hillside or angled surface.

In view of the foregoing, a need exists for a hunting blind base that iseasily transported to a hunting location. A further need exists for ahunting blind base that is easily assembled and disassembled in thefield. A further need exists for a hunting blind base that can bepositioned on a hillside or angled surface. A further need exists for ahunting blind base that can be positioned off the ground surface above aswampy area. A further need exists for a hunting blind base thatprovides increased storage space for hunters to store hunting equipment,food, sleeping equipment, and clothing to reduce the amount of noisemade by the hunter in the hunting blind and to keep gear and clothingdry and debris-free.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, and generally, a hunting blind base is provided to addressand/or overcome some or all of the deficiencies or drawbacks associatedwith existing hunting blinds.

In one aspect of the disclosure, a base for supporting a sportingenclosure may include a plurality of outer frame members connected toone another to form an outer frame, at least one floor panel positionedon a top surface of the outer frame, and at least one of the floorpanels defining at least one aperture to receive a storage bin.

A plurality of support members may be configured to support the outerframe. A height of each support member relative to the ground surfacemay be adjustable to provide a level position for the outer frame. Thebase may include two separate sections rotatably connected to oneanother. Each section may include a portion of the outer frame and atleast one floor panel. A removable seat may be positioned on one of thefloor panels. A first floor panel may define an aperture that receives asingle storage bin. A second floor panel may define at least twoapertures that each receive a storage bin. A table may be stored in oneof the floor panels. The table may be configured to move from a storedposition within the floor panel to an upright extended position. A bowholder may be provided in one of the floor panels. At least one cameramount may be provided on one of the floor panels. The at least onecamera mount may include a first camera mount provided on a first floorpanel, and a second camera mount provided on a second floor panel. Thesecond camera mount may have a height greater than a height of the firstcamera mount. A shooting rail may be provided on one of the floorpanels. The shooting rail may be configured to move from a storedposition within the floor panel to a shooting position in which theshooting rail is positioned perpendicular to the floor panel. Each floorpanel may include an upper padded layer and a rigid base layer.

In another aspect of the disclosure, a sporting enclosure and base mayinclude a sporting enclosure and a base configured to support thesporting enclosure. The base may include an outer frame and at least twofloor panels rotatably connected to one another and supported by theouter frame.

At least one of the floor panels may define at least one aperture toreceive a storage bin. A plurality of support members may be configuredto support the outer frame. A height of each support member relative tothe ground surface may be adjustable to provide a level position for theouter frame. The base may include two separate sections rotatablyconnected to one another. Each section may include a portion of theouter frame and at least one floor panel. A removable seat may bepositioned on one of the floor panels. A first floor panel may define anaperture that receives a single storage bin. A second floor panel mayinclude a frame that defines at least two apertures that each receive astorage bin. A table may be stored in one of the floor panels. The tablemay be configured to move from a stored position within the floor panelto an upright extended position. A bow holder may be provided in one ofthe floor panels. At least one camera mount may be provided on one ofthe floor panels. The at least one camera mount may include a firstcamera mount provided on a first floor panel, and a second camera mountprovided on a second floor panel. The second camera mount may have aheight greater than a height of the first camera mount. A shooting railmay be provided on one of the floor panels. The shooting rail may beconfigured to move from a stored position within the floor panel to ashooting position in which the shooting rail is positioned perpendicularto the floor panel. Each floor panel may include an upper padded layerand a rigid base layer. The sporting enclosure may include a huntingblind.

These and other features and characteristics of the hunting blind base,as well as the methods of manufacture and assembly, will become moreapparent upon consideration of the following description and theappended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, all ofwhich form a part of this specification, wherein like reference numeralsdesignate corresponding parts in the various figures. It is to beexpressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose ofillustration and description only and are not intended as a definitionof the limits of the disclosure. As used in the specification and theclaims, the singular form of “a”, “an”, and “the” include pluralreferents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a base for supporting a sportingenclosure, such as a hunting blind, provided thereon;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a plurality of support members used tohold a base for a hunting blind;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a base, positioned on the supportmembers of FIG. 2, used to hold the sporting enclosure;

FIG. 4A is an exploded view of section A shown in FIG. 3 and shows aconnecting arrangement between outer frame members of the base of FIG.3;

FIG. 4B is an exploded view of another connecting arrangement used toconnect the outer frame members of the base of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of section B shown in FIG. 3 and shows aconnecting arrangement between inner frame members of the base of FIG.3;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the assembly of a floor on the base ofFIG. 3;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the base of FIG. 3 in an assembledposition;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the assembled base of FIG. 6 showingopen compartments and a table;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the assembled base of FIG. 6 with asliding shooting rail and a plurality of camera mounts;

FIG. 10A is a cross-sectional view of a floor panel of the base of FIG.6;

FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional view of a floor panel of the base of FIG.6 including a frame to hold container in the floor panel;

FIG. 11 is a side view of a bow holder housed within the assembled baseof FIG. 6;

FIG. 12 is a side view of a hunting blind and base positioned on anangled hillside; and

FIG. 13A is a perspective view of an insertion arrangement for a supportmember within an outer frame member of the base of FIG. 3;

FIG. 13B is a side view of the insertion arrangement of FIG. 13A;

FIG. 14A is a perspective view of a securing arrangement for securing ahunting blind to the base of FIG. 3;

FIG. 14B is a cross-sectional view of the securing arrangement of FIG.14A;

FIG. 15 is a top perspective view of another embodiment of a base forsupporting a sporting enclosure, such as a hunting blind;

FIG. 16 is a bottom perspective view of the base of FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is an isolated view of one of the folding legs of the base ofFIG. 15;

FIG. 18 is a side view depicting the base of FIG. 15 installed on aninclined surface with a sporting enclosure supported thereon; and

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of an adjustable leg assembly providedon the base of FIG. 15.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

For purposes of the description hereinafter, the terms “upper”, “lower”,“right”, “left”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, “top”, “bottom”, “lateral”,“longitudinal”, and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention asit is oriented in the figures. However, it is to be understood that thedisclosure may assume alternative variations and step sequences, exceptwhere expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understoodthat the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attacheddrawings, and described in the following specification, are simplyexemplary aspects of the disclosure. Hence, specific dimensions andother physical characteristics related to the aspects disclosed hereinare not to be considered as limiting.

The present disclosure is directed to, in general, a hunting blind baseand, in particular, to a portable hunting blind base including a framehaving a plurality of storage compartments and other accessories to beutilized by a hunter when positioned within the hunting blind. Certainpreferred and non-limiting aspects of the components of the huntingblind base are illustrated in FIGS. 1-19. While the followingdescription references a hunting blind and hunter that uses thedisclosed invention, it is to be understood that the present inventioncan also be used with other portable enclosures, including but notlimited to, military applications in which a solider using a portableenclosure for sleeping or camping in an outdoor setting.

With reference to FIG. 1, a sporting enclosure, which may be a huntingblind 200, is shown positioned on a base 100. It is to be understoodthat the sporting enclosure may be a hunting blind 200, an ice fishingenclosure, a tent, or any other enclosure using in sporting activities.The base 100 may rest on a plurality of support members 2 a-2 d. Thehunting blind 200 may be any conventional hunting blind that is used byhunters. The hunting blind 200 may provide cover to hunters to reducethe chances of detection from animals, such as deer or water fowl. Thehunting blind 200 may provide an inner space in which a hunter can sitor lie down while hunting. The hunting blind 200 may include a windowfor the hunter to look out of and to shoot from once an animal has beendetected. The hunting blind 200 may be portable or a stationarystructure that remains in place once assembled by the hunter. Thehunting blind 200 may include a strap (not shown) on each bottom cornerto connect to the base 100.

With reference to FIG. 2, the plurality of support members 2 a-2 d maybe configured to hold the base 100 upon which the hunting blind 200 maybe assembled. The base 100 is described in greater detail below. In oneaspect, four support members 2 a-2 d may be used to hold the base 100.It is also contemplated that additional support members (not shown) maybe used to add greater structural support to the base 100 and thehunting blind 200. The support members 2 a-2 d may be generallyrectangular in shape. The support members 2 a-2 d may have a pointed endto allow for easier insertion into the ground surface. In one aspect,the support members 2 a-2 d may be made of wood. It is also contemplatedthat the support members 2 a-2 d may be made of metal, plastic, or anyother material sufficiently strong enough to hold the base 100. Thesupport members 2 a-2 d may be water-proof so as not to deteriorate orrust from any moisture in the outdoor environment in which the base 100and the hunting blind 200 have been assembled. The support members 2 a-2d may be hammered into a ground surface at a location the hunter decidesto place the hunting blind 200.

With reference to FIG. 12, due to uneven terrain in the field, thesupport members 2 a-2 d may need to be inserted at different heightswithin the ground surface. For example, if a hunter wishes to positionthe hunting blind 200 and the base 100 on an inclined surface, such as ahill, two of the support members 2 a-2 d may extend further from theground surface on the lower side of the hill and the two remainingsupport members 2 a-2 d may extend from the higher side of the hill toensure that the base 100 rests on the support members 2 a-2 d in a levelposition. It is also contemplated that each support member 2 a-2 d mayextend at different lengths from an uneven ground surface to provide alevel platform to hold the base 100. Based on the selected terrain, thehunter can adjust the height of each support member 2 a-2 d to ensurethat the top surface of each support member 2 a-2 d is positioned at thesame height to provide a level platform for the base 100. The supportmembers 2 a-2 d may also allow a hunter to position the base 100 and thehunting blind 200 above a ground surface. For example, the hunter mayinsert the support members 2 a-2 d in the muddy ground in a swamp. Thebase 100 and the hunting blind 200 may rest on the support members 2 a-2d above the swamp waters.

With reference to FIGS. 3-5, the base 100 is described in greaterdetail. The base 100 is configured to rest on the support members 2 a-2d once the support members 2 a-2 d have been positioned in the groundsurface at a level position. As shown in FIG. 3, the base 100 mayinclude four outer frame members 4 a-4 d. The outer frame members 4 a-4d may be connected to move a generally square-shaped frame. It is alsocontemplated that the outer frame members 4 a 4 d may form other frameswith different shapes, such as rectangular, triangular, or circular.Each outer frame member 4 a-4 d may connect to two other outer framemembers 4 a-4 d. Each outer frame member 4 a-4 d may include an innerconnection member 6 a-6 d to assist in placing the base 100 on thesupport members 2 a-2 d. The inner connection members 6 a-6 d may beU-shaped, with a two legs extending from an inner surface of therespective outer frame member 4 a-4 d and another leg thatperpendicularly extends between the first legs. In this configuration,each outer frame member 4 a-4 d and each inner connection member 6 a-6d, respectively, form a square-shaped enclosure configured to receiveeach respective support member 2 a-2 d. Each enclosure includes a cap 8a-8 d that allows the base 100 to rest on a top surface of each supportmember 2 a-2 d. Once the support members 2 a-2 d have been inserted intothe ground surface and the base 100 has been assembled (described ingreater detail below), the base 100 may be placed over the supportmembers 2 a-2 d such that the caps 8 a-8 d rest on each respectivesupport member 2 a-2 d, which ensures the base 100 settles in a levelposition based on the insertion of the support members 2 a-2 d into theground surface. It is also contemplated that the hunter may set updifferent sets of support members 2 a-2 d at multiple locations so thatthe hunter only needs to transport the base 100 and the hunting blind200 between locations.

With reference to FIG. 4A, the connection of adjacent outer framemembers 4 a-4 b is described. Although only shown in connection with theouter frame members 4 b, 4 c, it is to be understood that each pair ofouter frame members 4 a-4 d may be connected in a similar fashion. Theadjacent outer frame members 4 b, 4 c are positioned with an innersurface of one outer frame member 4 b abutting an end face of anadjacent outer frame member 4 c. An inner surface of an end of the outerframe member 4 c may include a pair of dovetail protrusions 9 aextending therefrom. One leg of the inner connection member 6 b mayinclude corresponding dovetail recesses 9 b configured to receive thedovetail protrusions 9 a of the outer frame member 9 c. Although adovetail shape is used for the protrusions 9 a and recesses 9 b, it isalso contemplated that alternative shapes may also be used. As the outerframe members 4 b, 4 c are brought into contact, the dovetailprotrusions 9 a of the outer frame member 4 c may be inserted into thedovetail recesses 9 b defined in the inner connection member 6 b. Thelocking arrangement created by the dovetail protrusions 9 a and dovetailrecesses 9 b prevents vertical movement of the outer frame members 4 b,4 c relative to one another. The end face of the outer frame member 4 cmay define at least two threaded apertures 10 a, 10 b. The outer framemember 4 b may also define at least two apertures through which afastener 12 a, 12 b may extend. The fasteners 12 a, 12 b may include athreaded portion that extends into the threaded apertures 10 a, 10 b ofthe outer frame member 4 c. The fasteners 12 a, 12 b may also include arotatable handle portion 14 a, 14 b. Each handle portion 14 a, 14 b maybe rotatable either manually or through an automatic means to rotate andthread the fasteners 12 a, 12 b into the apertures 10 a, 10 b. When thehandle portions 14 a, 14 b are not being used to rotate the fasteners 12a, 12 b, the handle portions can be snapped into place within a recess16 a, 16 b defined in the outer frame member 4 b. In this manner, eachpair of outer frame members 4 a-4 d may be connected to one another toform the outer frame portion of the base 100.

An alternative connection arrangement for the outer frame members 4 a-4d is shown in FIG. 4B. Instead of using the dovetail protrusions 9 a andrecesses 9 b to connect the outer frame members 4 b, 4 c, each outerframe member 4 b, 4 c may include a corresponding plurality of teeth 9c, 9 d that may be fit together to lock the outer frame members 4 b, 4c. Each protruding tooth 9 c, 9 d may define an aperture to receive aremovable pin 9e once the teeth 9 c, 9 d have been fit together.

With reference to FIGS. 3 and 5, the inner frame portion of the base 100is described. After the outer frame portion of the base 100 has beenassembled, the inner frame portion may be assembled. The inner frameportion may include at least two inner frame members 18 a, 18 b and atleast two inner cross members 20 a-20 c connected to the inner framemembers 18 a, 18 b. Although a certain number of inner frame members andinner cross members are shown in the figures, it is to be understoodthat additional or fewer members may be provided to add or removesupport to the base 100 as desired. Two of the outer frame members 4 b,4 d may include at least two dovetail cuts 22 a, 22 b defined on aninner surface thereof. It is also contemplated, however, thatalternative cuts or connection methods may be used to connect the outerframe members 4 b, 4 d to the inner frame members 18 a, 18 b. Each endof each inner frame member 18 a, 18 b may include a correspondingdovetail protrusion 24 a, 24 b configured for insertion into therespective dovetail cut 22 a, 22 b. As each dovetail protrusion 24 a, 24b is inserted into the respective dovetail cut 22 a, 22 b, a frictionfit is formed between the outer frame members 4 b, 4 d and the innerframe members 18 a, 18 b. Although FIG. 3 shows the inner frame members18 a, 18 b connected to the outer frame members 4 b, 4 d, it is alsocontemplated that the inner frame members 18 a, 18 b may be connected tothe outer frame members 4 a, 4 c.

Similar to the dovetail connection of the outer frame members 4 b, 4 dand the inner frame members 18 a, 18 b, the inner cross members 20 a-20c may be connected in a dovetail arrangement with the inner framemembers 18 a, 18 b. In one aspect, the inner cross members 20 a-20 c maybe connected to inner surfaces of the inner frame members 18 a, 18 bsuch that the inner cross members 20 a-20 c are positioned between theinner frame members 18 a, 18 b. The inner cross members 20 a-20 c mayextend in a perpendicular direction to the inner frame members 18 a, 18b. Further, a seat base 26 may be attached to at least two of the innercross members 20 b, 20 c. The seat base 26 is configured to receive andhold a removable seat on which the hunter may rest when hunting in thehunting blind 200 (described in greater detail below).

With reference to FIGS. 13A and 13B, an insertion arrangement forinserting the support members 2 a-2 d in the assembled outer framemembers 4 a-4 d is described. Although only shown in connection with theouter frame members 4 b, 4 c, it is to be understood that each supportmember 2 a-2 d may be positioned in a respective corner of the base 100in a similar fashion. The inner connection member 6 b on the outer framemember 4 b may include a rotatable, biased cap 11 a that is configuredto rotate downwards based on downward pressure on a top surface of thecap 11 a. A spring llb is provided in connection with the cap 11 a sothat, after pressure has been relieved from the top surface of the cap11 a, the cap 11 a is biased back into a resting position against arecess 11 c defined within the inner connection member 6 b. Therefore,in one aspect, the outer frame member 4 b, 4 c may be assembled and thenthe corresponding support member 2 c may be inserted into the innerconnection member 6 b, thereby pushing the cap 11 a downwards. Theindividual can then apply pressure to the support member 2 c to insertthe support member 2 c into the ground surface. The outer frame members4 b, 4 c can then be lifted above the inserted support member 2 c,thereby allowing the cap 11 a to rotate back into its resting positionagainst the recess 11 c based on the biasing force of the spring 11 b.The outer frame members 4 b, 4 c can then be lowered towards the supportmember 2 c to allow the cap 11 a to rest on the upper end of the supportmember 2 c.

With reference to FIGS. 6-8, after the base 100 has been assembled andpositioned on the support members 2 a-2 d, two floor panels 28 a, 28 bmay be positioned on an upper surface of the base 100. The floor panels28 a, 28 b may be made of lightweight, plastic material that is easilycarried by a hunter into the woods to a desired hunting location. Thefloor panels 28 a, 28 b may be injection molded. As shown in FIG. 10,each floor panel 28 a, 28 b may have a more rigid base layer 29 and apadded, soundproof upper layer 31. The upper layer 31 may be made of acushioned material to dampen and suppress any movement of the hunter onthe floor panels 28 a, 28 b. The floor panels 28 a, 28 b may besubstantially mirror images of one another so that either floor panel 28a, 28 b can be positioned on either portion of the base 100. Each floorpanel 28 a, 28 b is placed on one half of the base 100 to cover theupper surface of the base 100. Each floor panel 28 a, 28 b may include apair of locators 33 a, 33 b configured to assist in positioning thefloor panel 28 a, 28 b on the outer frame members 4 a-4 d. The locators33 a, 33 b may be inserted into the inner connection members 6 a-6 d toposition the floor panels 28 a, 28 b in a correct orientation on theouter frame members 4 a-4 d. The floor panels 28 a, 28 b should be rigidenough to allow a hunter to stand, lie, or sit on the floor panels 28 a,28 b without cracking or bending, but should be light weight enough sothat the floor panels 28 a, 28 b can be carried by the hunter with ease.The floor panels 28 a, 28 b may be rectangular in shape and may rest onthe upper surface of the outer frame members 4 a-4 d, the inner framemembers 18 a, 18 b, and the inner cross members 20 a-20 c. An inner edge30 a, 30 b of one of the floor panels 28 a, 28 b may include a pluralityof protrusions 32 that define an aperture which extends along adirection of the inner edge 30 a, 30 b. The protrusions 32 may be spacedalong the inner edge 30 a, 30 b of the floor panel 28 a, 28 b. The inneredge 30 a, 30 b of the opposing floor panel 28 a, 28 b may include aplurality of recesses 34 configured to receive the protrusions 32 of theopposing floor panel 28 a, 28 b. An aperture 36 is defined in the inneredge 30 a and extends from a first end of the inner edge 30 a to anopposing second end of the inner edge 30 a. After the floor panels 28 a,28 b have been pushed together such that the protrusions 32 of one floorpanel 28 b have been positioned within the recesses 34 of the opposingfloor panel 28 a, a rod 38 may be inserted into the aperture 36 andthrough the apertures defined by the protrusions 32 such that the floorpanels 28 a, 28 b are held together on the base 100. The rod connectionbetween the floor panels 28 a, 28 b permits the floor panels 28 a, 28 bto rotate relative to one another.

Since each floor panel 28 a, 28 b is substantially the same to permiteasy assembly on top of the base 100, the features of only one floorpanel 28 a will be discussed below. The floor panel 28 a may define anaperture 40 adjacent the inner edge 30 a of the floor panel 28 a. Whenthe floor panel 28 a is positioned on the base 100, the aperture 40 mayalign with an aperture defined in the seat base 26 to allow a seat to beinserted through the aperture 40 and into the seat base 26. The floorpanel 28 a may also include a handle 42 defined adjacent an edge of thefloor panel 28 a that is opposite the inner edge 30 a of the floor panel28 a. By gripping both handles 42 on both floor panels 28 a, 28 b, ahunter can easily carry the floor panels 28 a, 28 b to his/her chosenhunting spot.

The floor panel 28 a may also define an aperture 44 in the center of thefloor panel 28 a. A lid 46 may be rotatably connected to the floor panel28 a and may be configured to cover the aperture 44. It is contemplatedthat the lid 46 may include a lock to protect any contents stored in abin 48 held within the aperture 44. The bin 48 may be removablypositioned in the aperture 44, such that, after the floor panel 28 a hasbeen positioned on the base 100, the bin 48 can be inserted into theaperture 44 and used to store hunting equipment, sleeping bags,clothing, blankets, or any similar types of items. As shown in FIG. 10A,the aperture 44 may define a first ledge 50 upon which the lid 46 mayrest when covering the aperture 44. The first ledge 50 may extend aroundthe entire circumference of the aperture 44. The aperture 44 may alsodefine a second ledge 52 upon which the bin 48 may rest when insertedinto the aperture 44. The second ledge 52 may also extend around theentire circumference of the aperture 44. The bin 48 may include a lipthat extends outwardly to rest on the second ledge 52. The second ledge52 may be defined beneath the first ledge 50, such that, when the lid 46is closed over the aperture 44, the lid 46 rests on the first ledge 50.When the lid 46 is closed on the aperture 44, a top surface of the lid46 may be flush with a top surface of the floor panel 28 a.

As shown in FIGS. 6, 8, and 10B, instead of defining a single aperture44 in the floor panel 28 a, at least two sectioned apertures 54 a 54 bmay be defined by a frame 54 c that is placed in a floor panel 28 b. Itis contemplated, however, that the frame 54 c may define more than twoapertures. Similar to the aperture 44, the sectioned apertures 54 a, 54b may define a first ledge configured to receive a lid and a secondledge to hold storage bins 56 a, 56 b in the section apertures 54 a, 54b. The frame 54 c may rest on a ledge formed in the aperture 44 of thefloor panel 28 b. One storage bin 56 a may be used as a collapsiblecooler to store drinks, ice, food, or any item that should be kept at acolder temperature. The other storage bin 56 b may provide additionalstorage space for a hunter to hold clothing, hunting equipment, or anyother items needed by the hunter while hunting.

As shown in FIG. 7, a seat 58 may be inserted through the aperture 40and into the seat base 26. The height of the seat 58 may be adjustableto permit use by a plurality of different hunters. The seat 58 may alsobe rotatable around an axis to allow the hunter to spin the seat 58. Itis also contemplated that the seat 58 may be collapsible for storagewithin one of the bins 48, 56 a, 56 b.

As shown in FIG. 8, a table 60 may also be provided on the floor panel28 a. The table 60 may include a table top 62 and a plurality of legs 64that are attached to the table top 62 and the floor panel 28 a. The legs64 may be hingedly connected in pair so that the legs 64 can be foldedand unfolded to pull the table 60 out of the floor panel 28 a. A ring 66may be provided in the table top 62 to allow the hunter to pull thetable 60 out of the floor panel 28 a. The table 60 may be held within arecess 68 defined in the floor panel 28 a. When held within the recess68, a top surface of the table top 62 may be flush with the uppersurface of the floor panel 28 a. The hunter may pull the ring 66 to pullthe table 60 out of the recess 68. The legs 64 will unfold and extendupwards to an extended height such that the table top 62 is level withthe seat 58. The hunter can use the table 60 to hold drinks, ammunition,hunting equipment, binoculars, or any other equipment that is usedduring hunting. When the hunter does not need the table 60, the table 60can be pushed downwards so the legs 64 fold up and are stored within therecess 68. It is also shown in FIG. 8 that a lock 65a may be provided onthe lid 46 of each floor panel 28 a, 28 b to permit the hunter to securehis/her equipment in the storage bins 48, 56 a, 56 b. It is alsocontemplated that additional locks 65b may be provided on the floorpanels 28 a, 28 b to secure each floor panel 28 a, 28 b to eachrespective outer frame member 4 a-4 d to prevent theft of the base 100elements when the hunter leaves the base 100 in the field.

With reference to FIGS. 9 and 11, a bow holder 70 provided with the base100 is described. The bow holder 70 may be stored in a compartment 72defined in one of the floor panels 28 a, 28 b. The compartment 72 may becovered with a lid 74. The compartment 72 may be accessed by the hunterby opening the lid 74. The hunter may then pull the bow holder 70 out ofthe compartment 72. The bow holder 70 rotates upwardly out of thecompartment 72 into an upright position. The bow holder 70 andcompartment 72 may be provided adjacent the seat 58 to allow the hunterto reach or place his/her hunting bow on the bow holder 70 when sittingon the seat 58. The bow holder 70 may include a straight base member anda hook member provided on an end of the straight base member. The bowholder 70 may be configured to hold a hunting bow in a ready position sothat a hunter can quickly grab the hunting bow and bring the hunting bowto a firing position. When sitting in a hunting blind, a hunter's chanceat taking a shot at an animal occurs very quickly. In conventionalhunting blinds, a hunter will often have to place his/her hunting bow onthe ground in the hunting blind. When an animal comes into view, thehunter will often have to reach down and/or away from his/her positionto grab the hunting bow, often taking his/her eyes off of the animalmoving in front of the hunting blind. A considerable amount of noise mayalso be created when the hunter grabs the hunting bow off of the ground,which may spook the animal. Therefore, by using the bow holder 70, thehunter's bow is easily accessible at a position adjacent to the hunter.The bow holder 70 holds the hunter's bow off of the ground surface andadjacent the hunter's hands to permit the hunter to quickly grab his/herbow and move it to a firing position. When the bow holder 70 is notneeded by the hunter, the bow holder 70 may be rotated downwardly intothe compartment 72 and the lid 74 may be closed to store the bow holder70 in the base 100.

With continued reference to FIG. 9, a first camera mount 73 and a secondcamera mount 75 may be provided on the base 100. The first camera mount73 may be provided in a corner of the floor panel 28 b. The first cameramount 73 may be provided in front of the seat 58. The second cameramount 75 may be positioned in a corner of the floor panel 28 a, behindthe seat 58. It is also contemplated that additional camera mounts maybe provided on the floor panels 28 a, 28 b. Each camera mount 73, 75 isconfigured to hold a camera that is directed towards the seat 58 to filmthe hunter during his/her hunt. These camera mounts 73, 75 areespecially useful for filming and production companies that filmhunting-related shows and videos. The first camera mount 73 may bepositioned lower relative to the floor panels 28 a, 28 b than the secondcamera mount 75 so as not to interfere with the hunter when shooting outof the hunting blind 200. The first camera mount 73 may be provided toallow a camera to shoot a video or take photographs of the hunter whilehe/she is hunting. The second camera mount 75 may be provided to allow acamera to shoot a video or take photographs of the field of vision ofthe hunter out of the hunting blind 200. It is also contemplated thatthe height of the camera mounts 73, 75 may be adjustable. It iscontemplated the camera mounts 73, 75 may be configured to hold any typeof video camera, including GoPro cameras or tail cams, or photographiccamera.

With continuing reference to FIG. 9, a shooting rail 76 is shown inconnection with the base 100. The shooting rail 76 may provide a rest onwhich the hunter can position his/her gun when sitting on the seat 58 inthe hunting blind 200. The hunter can rest his/her gun on the shootingrail 76 to level the gun to obtain a more accurate shot. The shootingrail 76 may be provided on either floor panel 28 a, 28 b. In anotheraspect, a shooting rail 76 is provided on each floor panel 28 a, 28 b.The shooting rail 76 may include two support members 78 a, 78 b and aresting member 80. The support members 78 a, 78 b may extendsubstantially perpendicularly from the resting member 80 towards thefloor panel 28 b. The shooting rail 76 may be provided in a storageposition or a shooting position. In the storage position, the shootingrail 76 is stored within a recess 82 defined in the floor panel 28 b.The shape of the recess 82 may correspond to the shape of the shootingrail 76. When the hunter would like to use the shooting rail 76, thehunter may pull the shooting rail 76 out of the recess 82 causing theshooting rail 76 to rotate upwards. Once the shooting rail 76 has beenrotated upwards into an upright position, the shooting rail 76 isprovided at the shooting position. The bottom ends of the supportmembers 78 a, 78 b may drop into apertures (not shown) defined in therecess 82 to lock the shooting rail 76 in position. A brace 84a, 84 bmay be provided on a lower end of each support member 78 a, 78 b to addfurther support to the shooting rail 76 when positioned in the shootingposition. In one aspect, due to different hunters with different heightsusing the hunting blind 200, the height of the shooting rail 76 may beadjustable. The support members 78 a, 78 b may be telescoping membersthat can extend and retract once in the shooting position to adjust theheight of the resting member 80 relative to the hunter. After the hunterhas finished using the shooting rail 76, the hunter may pull the restingmember 80 upwards to pull the support members 78 a, 78 b out of theapertures defined in the recess 82. The hunter may then rotate theshooting rail 76 downwards to lie in the recess 82 for storage.

With reference to FIGS. 14A and 14B, a securing arrangement 90 forsecuring the hunting blind 200 to the base 100 is described. The base100 is configured to support varying sizes of hunting blinds. Based onthe diameter of the hunting blind 200, the securing arrangement 90 maybe adjusted to secure the hunting blind 200 to the base 100. Thesecuring arrangement 90 may include a knob 91, a threaded portion 92extending from the knob 91, a nut 93 threaded onto an end of thethreaded portion 92, and a hook 94 slidably provided on the threadedportion 92. The knob 91 may be rotated to either hold the securingarrangement 90 in a channel 95 defined in the corners of the floorpanels 28 a, 28 b or permit the securing arrangement 90 to slide alongthe channel 95. The nut 93 may have a diameter that is wider than thediameter of a lower portion of the channel 95 to prevent the securingarrangement 90 from being pulled out of the channel 95. As the knob 91is turned in a first direction, the threaded portion 92 is rotated awayfrom the nut 93 to allow the hook 94 to slide on the threaded portion92. A loop (not shown) from a corner of the hunting blind 200 may thenbe slid underneath the hook 94. The knob 91 may be rotated in a second,opposing direction to move the threaded portion 92 into the nut 93,thereby securing the hook 94 against the floor panel 28 a and thesecuring arrangement 90 within the channel 95. With the hook 94 securedagainst the floor panel 28 a, the loops from the hunting blind 200 areheld in place on the base 100. Using the securing arrangement 90, largerhunting blinds and smaller hunting blinds can both be used with the base100. The securing arrangement 90 may be slid inwards in the channel 95to accommodate smaller hunting blinds, and the securing arrangement 90may be slid outwards in the channel 95 to accommodate larger huntingblinds.

The hunting blind 200 and base 100 assembly provide several benefitsover conventional hunting blinds. By using the support members 2 a-2 dto adjust the height of the base 100 to a level position on uneventerrain, the hunting blind 200 and base 100 increase the number oflocations at which hunters can hunt. The floor panels 28 a, 28 b may bewaterproof to keep the floor dry within the hunting blind 200. Since thebase 100 lifts the hunting blind 200 off of the ground surface andutilizes floor panels 28 a, 28 b, the interior of the hunting blind 200is kept free of mud, dirt, and debris that can often move intoconventional hunting blinds. By raising the base 100 from the groundsurface, the assembly protects the hunter from any animals that may moveinto the hunting blind 200, such as rattlesnakes. The raised base 100also permits the hunting blind 200 to be used in a swamp, where bucksand other animals are typically comfortable. Conventional hunting blindsdo not have the necessary frame and floor platform to rise above theswamp waters. The base 100 is also easily assembled, thereby decreasingthe assembly time of a conventional hunting blind or tree stand in half.The base 100 is also portable, permitting the hunter to easilydisassemble the base 100 and move to another hunting location to spotanimals. The bins 48, 56 a, 56 b provided in the floor panels 28 a, 28 bprovide increasing storage space for a hunter's hunting equipment, food,clothing, or sleeping equipment. The bins 48, 56 a, 56 b permit thehunter to store his/her equipment under the floor panels 28 a, 28 b,thereby decreasing the amount of items that are left on top of the floorpanels 28 a, 28 b that the hunter may trip over or move, therebycreating noise that may spook any nearby animals. Further, by keepingthe floor panels 28 a, 28 b clear of equipment and debris, the huntercan comfortably lay on the floor panels 28 a, 28 b for a mid-day nap onall day hunts. Conventional hunting blinds do not typically includestorage space for equipment. The seat 58 almost permits the hunter a 360degree turning range, which allows the hunter to quietly rotate his/herview around the hunting blind 200 without creating excess noise. Thetable 60 and the bow holder 70 provide ready access for the hunter tohis/her bow, binoculars, ammunition, range finder, food, calls, or anyother equipment that may be held on the table 60.

With reference to FIGS. 15-18, another example of a base 300 forsupporting a sporting enclosure is described. The base 300 includes manysimilar features as the base 100 described above, but with slightvariations to several features. It is also be understood that any of thefeatures and accessories provided with the base 100 described above maybe incorporated and used with the base 300 currently being described.The base 300 includes at least two separate sections 302 a, 302 b thatare hingedly connected to one another. In one example, the sections 302a, 302 b are connected via a hinge 304 at a top surface 306 a, 306 b ofeach section 302 a, 302 b. Any suitable hinge arrangement may be used toconnect the two sections 302 a, 302 b. By hingedly connecting thesections 302 a, 302 b, the sections 302 a, 302 b are configured to foldtowards one another such that the top surfaces 306 a, 306 b of thesections 302 a, 302 b are brought in contact with one another. Byfolding the sections 302 a, 302 b together, the base 300 is easilytransported to a hunter's hunting destination or location. Each section302 a, 302 b may include handles (not shown) defined therein so that ahunter can carry the base 300 when the sections 302 a, 302 b are foldedor the hunter can hold the folded base 300 in a backpack or satchel tomove the base 300 to the hunting destination or location. In oneexample, a locking arrangement may be provided on the sections 302 a,302 b so that the sections 302 a, 302 b can be locked together when inthe folded position. At least one level indicator 308 a, 308 b may beinstalled in each section 302 a, 302 b to assist a hunter in levelingthe base 300 relative to an inclined surface.

Each section 302 a, 302 b includes a floor panel 310 a, 310 b and aframe structure 312 a, 312 b. The floor panels 310 a, 310 b aresubstantially flat and provide support for a hunter to stand, sit, orlie down on the base 300. The floor panels 310 a, 310 b may have asimilar construction as the floor panels 28 a, 28 b described above. Theframe structures 312 a, 312 b may be of any construction orconfiguration to provide adequate support for the base 300 to hold atleast one hunter within a hunting blind provided on the base 300. Eachof the sections 302 a, 302 b may define at least one camera mount hole314 to allow a hunter to position and move a mountable camera at/todifferent positions on the base 300. In one example, each section 302 a,302 b includes three separate mount holes 314 on two sides thereof. Asshown in FIG. 15, these mount holes 314 have an inclined receivingsurface to assist in receiving any attachments that are inserted intothe mount holes 314. For example, a removable table 60, a bow holder 70,a shooting rail 76, or any other desired attachment may includecone-shaped locking elements that are received in the mount holes 314.The attachments may be locked in the mount holes 314 via a snap-fitconnection, a friction-fit connection, or any other connection toremovably lock the attachment in the mount holes 314. While FIG. 15depicts the locking elements as cone-shape, it is contemplated that anysufficient locking element can be used to connect the attachments in themount holes 314. The attachments are removably held within the mountholes 314 so that the attachments can be disconnected from the mountholes 314 and stored in a storage bin when not in use. One section 302 amay include at least one chair mount hole 316 to receive amountable/portable chair (not shown) for the hunter to sit on whilehunting. In one example, two chair mount holes 316 are defined in thesection 302 a so that, depending on whether the hunter is right-handedor left-handed, the chair can be mounted in the base 300 at anappropriate position to ensure the hunter has sufficient room forrotating a drawn bow or gun within the hunting blind. At least onesection 302 b may include a lid 318 rotatably connected to the floorpanel 310 b that permits access to a storage bin (not shown), such asthe storage bin arrangement discussed above in connection with the base100. The lid 318 may include a lock (not shown) to ensure no items arestolen from the storage bin when the base 300 is left out in the open.

As shown in FIGS. 15 and 18, each corner of the base 300 has anadjustable leg assembly 320. The adjustable leg assemblies 320 permit ahunter to individually adjust the height of each adjustable leg assembly320 so that the base 300 is provided at a level position when installedon an inclined surface. Each adjustable leg assembly 320 may include asingle leg member 322 or a pair of telescoping leg members (not shown)that provides added height to the base 300. The leg members 322 aremovable within a bracket 324 rotatably held on the frame 312 a, 312 b ofthe base 300. The leg members 322 are movable upward and downward withinthe brackets 324 to adjust the height position of the leg members 322relative to the base 300 or an inclined surface. Each leg member 322 mayinclude a base member 326 provided on a bottom end thereof. The basemembers 326 assist in placing the base 300 and hunting blind 200 at aswampy, muddy, flooded, or watery location that may not have such asolid surface on which to install the base 300. The base members 326help to distribute the weight of the base 300 and the hunt blind 200(including the hunter standing therein) on the soggy, wet surface. Thebase members 326 include a plurality of apertures that allow the soggy,wet surface to pass through while the base members 326 rest on moresolid ground.

As shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, each of the adjustable leg assemblies 320is rotatably between an extended position and a stored position. In theextended position, the adjustable leg assemblies 320 are positioned tohold the base 300 and hunting blind 200 on a surface. The adjustable legassemblies 320 may also be rotated from the extended position to astored position to store the adjustable leg assemblies 320 within theframes 312 a, 312 b to allow the section 302 a, 302 b to be folded andtransported by a hunter. To permit rotation of the adjustable legassemblies 320 between the extended position and the stored position,the bracket 324 is held within a slot 328 defined within the frame 312a, 312 b. The slot 328 permits rotation of the bracket 324 and legmember 322 underneath the frame 312 a, 312 b. The bracket 324 is alsoattached at least one retracting member 330 rotatably held on anunderside of the floor panel 310 a, 310 b. In one example, at least tworetractable members 330 are connected to the bracket 324 and the floorpanel 310 a, 310 b. The retractable members 330 include two foldingmembers that move between an extended position and a retracted position.In another example, the retractable member 330 is a hydraulic cylinderor a spring-biased cylinder that can assist in locking the bracket 324in the extended or stored position. As the bracket 324 is rotated to theextended position, the retractable member 330 also extends to theextended position. It is contemplated that locking arrangements (notshown) may be provided on the underside of the floor panels 310 a, 310 bto lock the leg members 322 in the stored position during transport ofthe base 300. As shown in FIG. 18, after the base 300 and hunting blind200 have been installed at the hunting location, a skirt 332 may beattached to the outer side of the sections 302 a, 302 b by any suitableconnection methods (i.e., hooks, hook-and-loops fasteners, such asVelcro, snap buttons, buttons, zippers, or adhesive). The skirt 332 mayhave a camouflage pattern to conceal the leg members 322 of the base 300when installed on the surface. It is contemplated that any suitablecamouflage pattern may be used and that the skirt 332 may include adifferent camouflage pattern on each side thereof so that the skirt 332is reversible to accommodate different hunting locations.

With reference to FIG. 19, the adjustable leg assembly 320 is describedin greater detail. In order to move the leg member 322 of eachadjustable leg assembly 320 within the bracket 324 to adjust the heightof the leg member 322 relative to the surface, an actuating button 334is provided on the bracket 324 to allow for each adjustment of theheight of the leg member 322. The actuating button 334 extends from anouter surface of the bracket 324 and extends through the bracket 324 toa cavity defined in the bracket 324 to receive the leg member 322. Oneend of the actuating button 334 includes a pin 336 that is movablebetween an engaged and disengaged position with a particular hole 338defined in the leg member 322. In one example, the actuating button 334is spring-biased such that the pin 336 is biased to the engagedposition. As shown in FIG. 15, each leg member 322 defines a pluralityof holes 338 that correspond to different height positions for the legmember 322. The pin 336 of the actuating button 334 is insertable intoeach of the holes 338 to lock the leg member 322 at a particular heightrelative to the surface. To adjust the height of the leg member 322, auser will push the actuating button 334 with a force F towards thebracket 324. As the actuating button 334 is pressed inward, the opposingend of the actuating button 334 having the pin 336 is moved outwardly ina direction A to remove the pin 336 from a particular hole 338 in theleg member 322. The user can then either move the leg member 322 withinthe bracket 324 or move the base 300 to move the bracket 324 relative tothe leg member 322 so that the pin 336 can be inserted into a differenthole 338 in the leg member 322. After the desired height has beenreached for the leg member 322, the user will release pressure on theactuating button 334, thereby permitting the pin 336 to be biased intothe corresponding hole 338 in the leg member 322. Each adjustable legassembly 320 can be adjusted in this manner to ensure the base 300 ispositioned level relative to an inclined surface.

While various aspects of the base 100 and hunting blind 200 wereprovided in the foregoing description, those skilled in the art may makemodifications and alterations to these aspects without departing fromthe scope and spirit of the disclosure. For example, it is to beunderstood that this disclosure contemplates that, to the extentpossible, one or more features of any aspect may be combined with one ormore features of any other aspect. Accordingly, the foregoingdescription is intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive. Theinvention described hereinabove is defined by the appended claims andall changes to the invention that fall within the meaning and the rangeof equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A base for supporting a sporting enclosure,comprising: a plurality of outer frame members connected to one anotherto form an outer frame; at least one floor panel positioned on a topsurface of the outer frame; and the at least one of the floor panelsdefining at least one aperture to receive a storage bin.
 2. The base asclaimed in claim 1, further comprising a plurality of support membersconfigured to support the outer frame.
 3. The base as claimed in claim2, wherein a height of each support member relative to the groundsurface is adjustable to provide a level position for the outer frame.4. The base as claimed in claim 1, wherein the base is comprised of twoseparate sections rotatably connected to one another, each sectionincluding a portion of the outer frame and at least one floor panel. 5.The base as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a removable seatpositioned on one of the floor panels.
 6. The base as claimed in claim1, wherein a first floor panel defines an aperture that receives asingle storage bin, and wherein a second floor panel defines at leasttwo apertures that each receive a storage bin.
 7. The base as claimed inclaim 1, further comprising a table stored in one of the floor panels,the table being configured to move from a stored position within thefloor panel to an upright extended position.
 8. The base as claimed inclaim 1, further comprising a bow holder provided on one of the floorpanels.
 9. The base as claimed in claim 1, further comprising at leastone camera mount provided on one of the floor panels.
 10. The base asclaimed in claim 9, wherein the at least one camera mount comprises afirst camera mount provided on a first floor panel, and a second cameramount provided on a second floor panel, the second camera mount having aheight greater than a height of the first camera mount.
 11. The base asclaimed in claim 1, further comprising a shooting rail provided on oneof the floor panels.
 12. The base as claimed in claim 11, wherein theshooting rail is configured to move from a stored position within thefloor panel to a shooting position in which the shooting rail ispositioned perpendicular to the floor panel.
 13. The base as claimed inclaim 1, wherein each floor panel comprises an upper padded layer and arigid base layer.
 14. A sporting enclosure and base, comprising: asporting enclosure; and a base configured to support the sportingenclosure, the base comprising: an outer frame; and at least two floorpanels rotatably connected to one another and supported by the outerframe.
 15. The sporting enclosure and base as claimed in claim 14,wherein at least one of the floor panels defines at least one apertureto receive a storage bin.
 16. The sporting enclosure and base as claimedin claim 14, further comprising a plurality of support membersconfigured to support the outer frame.
 17. The sporting enclosure andbase as claimed in claim 16, wherein a height of each support memberrelative to the ground surface is adjustable to provide a level positionfor the outer frame.
 18. The sporting enclosure and base as claimed inclaim 14, wherein the base comprises two separate sections rotatablyconnected to one another, each section comprising a portion of the outerframe and one floor panel.
 19. The sporting enclosure and base asclaimed in claim 14, further comprising a removable seat positioned onone of the floor panels.
 20. The sporting enclosure and base as claimedin claim 14, wherein a first floor panel defines an aperture thatreceives a single storage bin, and wherein a second floor panel includesa frame that defines at least two apertures that each receive a storagebin.
 21. The sporting enclosure and base as claimed in claim 14, furthercomprising a table stored in one of the floor panels, the table beingconfigured to move from a stored position within the floor panel to anupright extended position.
 22. The sporting enclosure and base asclaimed in claim 14, further comprising a bow holder provided on one ofthe floor panels.
 23. The sporting enclosure and base as claimed inclaim 14, further comprising at least one camera mount provided on oneof the floor panels.
 24. The sporting enclosure and base as claimed inclaim 23, wherein the at least one camera mount comprises a first cameramount provided on a first floor panel, and a second camera mountprovided on a second floor panel, the second camera mount having agreater height than the first camera mount.
 25. The sporting enclosureand base as claimed in claim 14, further comprising a shooting railprovided on one of the floor panels.
 26. The sporting enclosure and baseas claimed in claim 25, wherein the shooting rail is configured to movefrom a stored position within the floor panel to a shooting position inwhich the shooting rail is positioned perpendicular to the floor panel.27. The sporting enclosure and base as claimed in claim 14, wherein eachfloor panel comprises an upper padded layer and a rigid base layer. 28.The sporting enclosure and base as claimed in claim 14, the sportingenclosure comprising a hunting blind.